How Long Does A Heart Attack Last If Untreated.The amount of heart muscle affected, and the person’s overall health. If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of a heart attack, it is crucial to seek emergency medical attention immediately.
How Long Does A Heart Attack Last If Untreated.
When a coronary artery becomes blocked, usually due to a blood clot forming on a plaque of cholesterol, the blood flow to a portion of the heart muscle is reduced or stopped. This leads to the death of that heart muscle tissue if blood flow is not restored promptly.
Some points to consider:
- Onset and Progression: The symptoms of a heart attack can start slowly and last for hours, days, or even weeks before the heart attack itself. On the other hand, symptoms can also be sudden and intense.
- Duration: If left untreated, the actual damage to the heart muscle can occur within a short time after symptoms begin, and damage can become irreversible after several hours.
- Outcomes: Heart attacks can be fatal if not treated promptly. Complications can also arise, such as heart failure, arrhythmias, and other conditions.
- Symptoms: Common symptoms include chest pain or discomfort; pain in the arms, back, neck, jaw, or stomach; shortness of breath; cold sweat; nausea; and lightheadedness. However, not everyone will experience these classic symptoms. For example, some people (especially women, older adults, and people with diabetes) might have more atypical symptoms or even no symptoms at all.
The key takeaway is that immediate medical intervention can prevent or limit damage to the heart muscle and improve outcomes. Time is of the essence in the treatment of a heart attack. If you or someone else is experiencing symptoms, don’t wait and call emergency services immediately.
Always consult with a healthcare professional about medical conditions and symptoms.
